Pittsburgh Pirates: Prospects Who Could Debut From Alt Site

The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced their alternate site roster.  Here’s a look at their top prospects who could play in Pittsburgh this year.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are a rebuilding organization and the big focus is on how their younger players and prospects develop this season.  As the minor league season got pushed back, there’s an alternate site once again in place for 2021.  The Pittsburgh Pirates have some notable prospects that could see time in the majors.

Max Kranick was added to the 40-man this winter and has a chance to pitch at the MLB Level this season.  After redoing his mechanics, Kranick has taken a step forward and now represents upper level pitching depth.  He ranks 38th in the organization per FanGraphs and features a four pitch mix.  While the likelihood he debuts is small, there’s a chance if the Pirates see some injuries.

Shea Spitzbarth was a minor league rule five pick and like Kranick, represents upper level minor league depth that can start.  He also has an outside chance of making his debut but one that is likely better than Kranick.  Nick Mears and Braeden Ogle are two relief pitching prospects, with Mears debuting last year and Ogle being left-handed.

Oh the offensive side of things, Oneil Cruz is the big name.  He is one of the Pirates top hitting prospects who has raw power but swing and miss concerns.  With Gregory Polanco  struggling last year, the club could look to call up Cruz this season and replace Polanco.

Travis Swaggerty is the Pirates best defensive prospect, especially in the outfield.  If Anthony Alford or Dustin Fowler get hurt or aren’t productive, Swaggerty could get the call up.  He needs to show more with the bat, but there’s a chance he makes his debut in 2021.

The Pirates have a developing farm system with some guys who could make their debut.  Rodolfo Castro is also at the Alternate Site but with the current middle infield depth, his odds of making the Majors is lower.